Discourses on Moral & Religious Subjects (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1882. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... "THE AIM OF THE INSTITUTE OF CHARITY." Many members of the Order of Charity in this country having expressed a wish to read an English version of the above discourse, which was delivered at Stresa, by the Very Rev. Peter Bertetti (on the occasion of his installation as Provost of the Italian Province in 1854), it has been decided to print a translation of it as a not unsuitable Appendix to this volume. The discourse was originally printed in Italy at the urgent request of members of the Order there, and published in 1862--Father Bertetti being, at the time, General of the Order, the third in succession from its venerated Founder, Rosmini. The modest terms in which the author conveyed his consent to the publication of this discourse, are worth preserving as its fittest Preface: -- "Dearly beloved brethren, since you have so many times desired to print the discourse which I delivered on my entering upon the office of Provincial Provost, I feel bound to comply with your wish. Nothing but this, your affectionate desire, would have induced me to give this discourse publicity. The result, such as it is, belongs to you and to the Institute, as, indeed, belong all my thoughts and all my deepest affections. Conscious as I am that this address had neither grace of diction nor beauty of style to recommend it, and that it was void of art and learning, I cannot but think that Our Blessed Lord has thought well to make use of me, His humble instrument, and to impart to my weak words a significance not unprofitable to your piety and to your love of perfection. I yield then to the gentle force of your solicitations. It may be that, as on hearing my words, your spiritual joy was increased; so now, on reading them, your spiritual joy will be renewed by fresh gifts of God'...